SOCCER: Stockport County boss Carlton Palmer is hoping to tie up a three-year deal for Fraser McLachlan.

The young midfielder has jumped to the front of the queue for a starting spot after a series of performances that have impressed Palmer.

His form has persuaded Palmer not to pursue a deal with former County favourite Tom Bennett.

"The form of Fraser McLachlan means I don't have to rush out and get Tom Bennett," said Palmer. "We have offered him a new three-year deal, which he has accepted, and we are currently sorting out the paperwork.

"He has performed well in the last 11 games and was excellent at Norwich in the last game of the season."

Palmer admitted money was a stumbling block in the proposed return of Bennett, who has been released by Walsall after captaining them to promotion two seasons ago.

But the County boss refused to completely rule out further talks if the price was right.

Palmer added: "Tom was a player we were interested in but he wanted a two-year deal and I wasn't prepared to commit that sort of money for a player of his age.

Form

"I realise there might come a time when I have to do that, but the form of Fraser means I don't have to do it yet.

"What we lack in experience next season, we will make up for in enthusiasm and spirit."

Palmer unveiled his first two summer signings last week - Rickie Lambert in a £300,000 deal from Macclesfield Town and free transfer Martin Pemberton from Mansfield.

And he is hoping to add 'one or two' new faces to his squad before the summer break.

He added: "I've spoken to one player this week and will be having talks with another.

"But there are still players at the club who are earning good and they may have to leave first."

Two players who appear to be off Palmer's hit list are Blackburn Rovers striker Ben Burgess, who has starred in Brentford's promotion push, and Doncaster winger Andy Watson.

Palmer made a £400,000 bid for Burgess, but was still short of the £600,000 asking price.

"We have been watching Ben since Christmas and had two bids turned down," Palmer added.

"We feel the amount we have offered is a fair price for a player who has only played one season of League football.

"I went to see Andy Watson play and he didn't have a very good game.

"He comes on the recommendation of Colin Murphy, who is very rarely wrong, but we won't be signing him for the sort of money Doncaster are asking."